SPRINGDALE, AR – The Northwest Arkansas Naturals and Liberty Bank of Arkansas are excited to announce the return of the Community Heroes program for the 2013 All-Star Season. The Community Heroes program honors individuals who have made a positive impact on others in their hometown or organization.

"The Naturals are proud to honor those that are making a difference in our region," said Naturals General Manager Eric Edelstein. "We are excited to continue our partnership with Liberty Bank and look forward to welcoming this year's recipients and their guests."

Community Heroes are those who have gone above and beyond to help others in their community by their actions, big or small. Community Heroes are honored at either a Friday or Saturday night home game and receive four Super Premium tickets to that night's game, recognition during a pregame ceremony, a certificate and a "Community Heroes" award from Liberty Bank. Previous winners include students, clergy and businesses that have benefited their community through service.

"We are proud to begin our second year partnering with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals in recognizing those individuals in our communities who make a difference," said Howard Hamilton, president of Liberty Bank's Northwest Region. "Sponsoring the Liberty Bank Community Heroes program is just a natural fit with our corporate culture."

On Opening Night, April 4, the Naturals seek to honor nine teachers and/or first responders in honor of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy. These individuals who give to our community every day will escort the Naturals' starters to the first base line and stand with them during the National Anthem. The first nine teachers and first responders will be honored. Teachers and first responders who are nominated after the first nine will be honored at a later date.

To nominate an individual whom you feel is a Community Hero, fill out the nomination form located on the Community page of the Naturals website or by visiting www.mylibertybank.com/heroes. Completed forms can be emailed to Julie@nwanaturals.com, faxed to (479) 759-8088 or returned to the Naturals front office. You may also drop off the form at any Northwest Arkansas Liberty Bank location.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark, located in Springdale. Opening night is April 4 against the Midland Rockhounds at 6 p.m. Visit our website, nwanaturals.com, for information on season tickets and ticket plans.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.